Grimshaw has released new images and a video of their design for the Sustainability Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. Striving to “illuminate the ingenuity and possibility of architecture as society looks to intelligent strategies for sustainable future living,” the Sustainability Pavilion joins designs from Foster + Partners and BIG to make up the three main structures on the Expo's HOK-designed masterplan.
The pavilion design, developed with engineering consultants Buro Happold, draws inspiration from complex natural process like photosynthesis to create a dynamic structure capable of capturing energy from the sun and fresh water from humidity in the air. The striking form and innovative systems will help draw in visitors while demonstrating the capability of architecture to become self-sustaining even in extreme climates.
The pavilion will also highlight the often overlooked world of plant and animal life found in the desert environment of the UAE, illustrating the extraordinary ways that nature is capable of reacting to its setting.
Considering longevity of use as an aspect of sustainability, the pavilion is designed both to accommodate the large crowds expected at Expo 2020 and to continue in its function beyond the life of the Expo – the structure will feature flexible elements that will allow the building to reduce its resource consumption once the period of high-traffic is finished.
“As the United Arab Emirates endeavors to establish itself as a global cultural leader, it is important that the Expo be represented by design that is both functional and revelatory, utilizing technology and inventive design to deliver a distinct architectural presence driven by the message it intends to convey,” said Grimshaw in a press release.
The project will be realized with support from Grimshaw’s newest office in Dubai, opened recently to serve a number of projects in the Middle East region and beyond.
News via Grimshaw.
